COLUMBUS, Ohio, Jan. 5, 2011 /PRNewswire/ — Frank Gates Service Company / Avizent, a national claims and risk management service provider, announced today the acquisition of Vantage Health Plan Inc. (VHP), the parent of a certified Managed Care Organization (MCO) in Ohio.

With the addition of VHP, Frank Gates / Avizent will now offer a full-suite of integrated claims and managed care services to its growing self-insured, group rating and state fund clients in Ohio. VHP will be renamed Frank Gates Managed Care Services.

“We are excited to re-enter the MCO market at such a critical juncture in the future of workers’ compensation in Ohio,” said Thomas Watson, president and chief executive officer of Frank Gates / Avizent. “It has been almost five years since Frank Gates divested its interest in a previous MCO venture. With the changes in the marketplace and our expertise in offering national risk management solutions, we are confident that this acquisition will further enhance our ability to meet the growing needs of both local and national clients doing business in Ohio. The ability to provide comprehensive managed care services, including an MCO for state-funded employers, will result in better coordination of claims administration, medical management and return-to-work efforts while also allowing us to reduce the cost of handling claims.”

“We are pleased to be joining such a well-respected and seasoned company in the state of Ohio,” commented Dale Bugay, chief executive officer of VHP. “Our philosophy and approach to workers’ compensation will complement and enhance Frank Gates / Avizent’s existing business. We are thrilled to offer an even greater array of services and expertise to our customers. Together, we will be able to provide employers with a comprehensive offering that will be unmatched in the state.”

About Frank Gates Service Company / Avizent

Frank Gates / Avizent is one of the most innovative claims and risk management service providers in the United States. The company offers client-defined solutions in claims management, managed care, alternative risk and risk management information systems. Based in Columbus, Ohio, the company has over 40 locations nationwide. For additional information, visit the Frank Gates / Avizent website at www.avizentrisk.com or call 888-646-9675.